Liberty and Cheesesteaks for All - Citizens Bank Park

Citizens Bank Park is a part of Philadelphia’s South Side stadium complex with neighbors Lincoln Financial Field (NFL’s Eagles), the Wachovia Center (NBA’s Sixers and NHL’s Flyers), and the Wachovia Spectrum (minor league hockey and former home for the Sixers and Flyers). In theory, it sounds like nirvana for a sports fan, right?

In reality, it means that although the complex is in Philadelphia it’s isolated from the rest of the city and surrounded by parking lots. So unlike some other urban ballparks, there’s no bustling city neighborhood to explore postgame.

All is not lost, however. Many Phillies’ fans gather at Chickie’s and Pete’s across Broad Street from the stadium complex, where they serve up drinks with their famous crab fries. The ballpark itself has McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon, which is open whether the Phils are in town or not.

Center City Philadelphia is a short ride north on the Broad Street Line subway, which can be picked up at Pattison Avenue on the edge of the sports complex. Chestnut and Walnut streets are both lively, as is famous South Street with its unique shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Independence National Historical Park is nearby, with the Liberty Bell (the real one, not the one that lights up when the Phillies hit a home run) and Independence Hall.

Philadelphia is, of course, known for its cheese steaks, and they can be had at the ballpark and places all over the city. Not too far from the park are two classic joints, Geno’s and Pat’s, across the street from each other. Which is better is one of the longest running debates in the City of Brotherly Love.

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